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New email phishing scam targets BC Hydro customers

VANCOUVER: BC Hydro is warning customers about a new twist on a scam seeking to trick them into providing their private banking information.

BC Hydro has received dozens of reports of new scam emails that “spoof” a BC Hydro email address, sending messages that appear to be from BC Hydro, but are not. The scale of this attempt is unprecedented as it is known that thousands of emails are being sent out to addresses across the country.

In these messages, customers are directed to click a link to access their account refund by submitting their banking information. This is a scam.

Customers should be wary of any messages that seem suspicious or unexpected, including an unexpected email that references account or billing status that seems to be incorrect. To avoid falling victim to this scam, BC Hydro wants its customers to know:

It does not offer refunds or credits through Interac e-transfer.

It does not collect credit card or bank account information by email.

If a customer doubts the authenticity of an email, they should call BC Hydro immediately at 1 800 BCHYDRO or check their account on MyHydro.

Customers are encouraged to report suspected fraud to their local police department and the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre at 1 888 495 8501.